ISSN:
0942-0940
Keywords:
Keywords: Endothelin-1; protein kinase C; subarachnoid haemorrhage; vasospasm.
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
Summary Endothelium plays a role in the regulation of vascular tone. Endothelin is a family of potent vasoconstrictive peptides, and endothelin-1 (ET-1) produced in the endothelium induces a tonic contraction via specific receptor ETa. ET-1 has been postulated as an important factor in the development of vasospasm after subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH). We have previously shown that protein kinase C (PKC) of the cerebral artery plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of vasospasm. The purpose of this study is to clarify the relationship between ET-1 and PKC in the development and maintenance of vasospasm. Using a “two-haemorrhage” canine model, chronological changes of angiographic progression of vasospasm, PKC activation, and ET-1 level of the basilar artery were assessed. In an isometric tension study with a control artery, the effects of ETa- and ETa/ETb-antagonists on the tonic contraction induced by ET-1 were examined. The effects of ET-1, ET-1 and an ETa-antagonist, and ET-1 and an ETa/ETb-antagonist on PKC activation were also evaluated. ET-1 level temporarily increased, then decreased to the control level in a later stage of vasospasm. ET-1 induced a tonic contraction and enhancement of PKC activation, but both were inhibited either by an ETa- or an ETa/ETb-antagonist. These results indicate that ET-1 initiates the development of vasospasm through PKC activation, but does not contribute to prolonged vasospasm.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s007010070013
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